SafePlants

Cuckooflower (Cardamine pratensis)

The Cuckooflower, scientifically known as Cardamine pratensis, is a charming springtime perennial wildflower often found in damp, grassy areas. Its appearance coincides with the arrival of the cuckoo's call, hence its common name.

Common Names

• Cuckooflower
• Lady's Smock
• Meadowcress
• Pigeon's Eye
• Lucy
• Milkmaid
• Milking Maids
• Pig's Eyes
• Cuckoo Bread
• Lucy Locket

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cardamine pratensis
• Family: Brassicaceae (also known as Cruciferae or Mustard Family)
• Order: Brassicales
• Taxonomic Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

• Native throughout most of Europe and Western Asia.
• Found in damp, grassy places such as wet meadows, ditches, marshes, damp grasslands, roadsides, and river banks.
• Common throughout Scotland and the UK, including the Western Isles.
• Specific locations mentioned include Cheshire (where it is the County Flower), Pendle, Lancs, Northwich, Cheshire, Howardian Local Nature Reserve in Cardiff, and Cumbria.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• A perennial plant, growing up to approximately 0.5 meters (2 feet) in height, although some specimens reach only 20 cm (8 inches).
• Flowers are typically lilac-pink, pink, or white with four petals, around 1.5 cm across, and sometimes feature a yellow center.
• Leaves are narrow and long, forming rosettes of pinnate leaves.
• Prefers damp, soggy ground.
• Flowers from April to June/July.

Ecological Role

• Attracts bee-flies and long-tongued hoverflies.
• Provides food for the orange-tip butterfly.

Quirky Facts

• In some regions, there's a traditional belief that picking cuckooflowers would cause thunder.
• The leaves and flowers have a taste similar to cress and watercress.

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society): Find help and information on Cardamine pratensis.
• Nature's Calendar: Download a free cuckooflower fact sheet.